This Incredible Mac and Cheese with Cheetos combines creamy, cheesy pasta with a crunchy topping for the ultimate comfort food.
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Why You’ll LOVE This Recipe
Are Cheetos a staple in your household? Well, now you have another way to enjoy them! This takes a nostalgic comfort food to the modern ages.
Not typically a Cheeto consumer? This crunchy snack makes for a flavorful, crunchy topping for mac and cheese. Once you enjoy your dish this way you won’t want it any other way!
Ingredients
The main ingredients you will need are:
Cheetos– I used the classic version but you can use the Flamin’ Hot type of you prefer.
Elbow noodles– You can use your favorite noodle shape for this recipe.
Smoked paprika– This adds great flavor!
In addition, you will need som kitchen staples: flour, butter, whole milk, garlic, cheese, salt, and pepper.
How to Make Mac and Cheese with Cheetos
I understand that making homemade Mac and Cheese can be intimidating! We can walk through it tighter- trust!
Before you do anything grab out all of your ingredients, measure them, and grab out all the dishes and tools you’ll need. Then, preheat your oven and spray your baking dish with nonstick spray. This way, you’ll be set up for success.
Add your Cheetos to a Ziplock baggie and crush! The thinner the more flavor you get but may also get more soft! The more fine the Cheeto the less flavor you get but it won’t be as soft.
Next up, grate the cheese and cook your pasta according to the directions on the box.
Now you’ll make a roux! Add the butter and garlic to a large pot on low-medium heat. Once melted, add in the flour and mix. This will form a dough-like consistency. This is normal! Then, add in the milk and mix.
After, add in the spices, cheeses, and cooked pasta. Combine so all the noodles are evenly coated.
Add half of this mixture to the bottom of the baking dish then top with half of the crushed Cheetos. Then, add the rest of the noodle mixture. If you want to add additional cheese, you can sprinkle that on now. Then, top with the remaining crushed Cheetos.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 30 minutes!
Expert Tips and Tricks
I’ve tested this recipe a few times and have come across some tips and tricks. Once you make this recipe a few times you’ll be an expert, too! Be sure to leave any tips in the comments down below so I can improve, too!
- Grate your cheese fresh from a block! This makes for a better texture and more rich flavor profile.
- Try not to over bake. It may seem like it could ‘use a bit longer’ but try not to fall into leaving it in the oven too long.
Additions and Substitutions
For a bit of a protein boost try adding bacon bits or chicken. This makes for a more filling dish!
Mac and cheese may not seem like the time for some veggies but you can easily add a few servings in. This way you get your delicious meal and know you’re having some veggies.
If PASTA or CHEESE isn’t your favorite you can easily swap it for a variety of pasta and cheese you prefer. But, keep in mind, when making changes to the recipe from how it is written may have an unanticipated result.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
If your question hasn’t been answered yet you may find it here. If not, be sure to leave it in the comments down below. I’ll be sure to get you an answer as I am able to.
How do I reheat Mac and cheese?
There are a couple ways to reheat this mac and cheese:
- Microwave: ~2 minutes; Quick but loses flavor and texture
- Oven: 350 degrees for about 15/20 minutes; takes longer but retains flavor
- Air Fryer: Pop a slice in an air-fryer safe container and cook for about ⅚ minutes
Can I use Flamin’ Hot Cheetos?
Yes! If you prefer a spicier Mac and cheese, opt for the Flamin’ Hot version of Cheetos.
Is this recipe difficult?
The difficulty of this recipe depends on your skill in the kitchen. If you are able to follow the directions you are sure to have success.
A Word From A Registered Dietitian
Mac and Cheese with Cheetos is obviously not an ‘everyday food’. The great thing is that in a balanced diet fun foods like this are included!
Food is about more than calories and nutrients. There is also enjoyment, experience, fun, and sociability. This dish is definitely a show-stopper!
Imagine the great memories that can be had from making a batch with kids, talking about the cooking process, then exposing the dish together. This dish can become the center of a core memory. Hey, they may even ask you for your recipe;)
Craving More?
If you make this Incredible Mac and Cheese with Cheetos be sure to leave a 5-star rating and comment down below. It really helps spread the recipe so more can give it a try! Also, tag me in a photo of your creation on Instagram. I would love to see and share it!
Looking for other recipes? Give these a taste:
Incredible Mac and Cheese with Cheetos Recipe
Incredible Mac and Cheese with Cheetos
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 Lb Elbow Noodles Large
- 1 Stick Butter Unsalted
- 2 Tablespoons Garlic
- ¾ Cup Flour All-Purpose
- 3 Cups Milk Whole
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Smoked Paprike
- Salt and Pepper To taste
- 2 Cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Grated
- 2 Cups Pepperjack Cheese Grated
- 4 Cups Cheetos Crushed
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all of your ingredients. Spray a 9x13in dish with nonstick spray and set aside. Preheat oven to 350 degrees farenheit.
- Add the Cheetos to a Ziplock baggie and crush. Set aside.
- Grate cheese. Set aside.
- Cook your elbow noodles al dente, according to directions on box. Set aside.
- In a large pot heat butter and garlic over low-medium heat. Once butter is melted add in flour, continuously mixing.
- Once, thickened to a paste-like consistency add in the milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt & pepper, and cheese. Continue to mix until evenly combined.
- Add in cooked noodles.
- Add half the noodle mixture to the baking dish. Cover with half the crushed Cheetos. Top with remaining noodle mixture. If you prefer additional cheese, you can add it now. Top with remaining crushed Cheetos.
- Cover with tin foil and bake in oven for 30 minutes.
- Allow to cool and enjoy!
Notes
- Nutrition Facts are based of of USDA’s Food Data Central. Exact nutrition content may vary.
- Store up to 5 days covered in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
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